The wastewater of New Zealand is tested every month for drugs of abuse. This is a nationwide program that started in November 2018 and now covers up to 75% of the population. The purpose of the testing is to provide an indication of drug consumption across the country.
The most recent report, covering July to September 2023, highlights an increase in illicit drug use as follows:
Methamphetamine
Between July and September 2023, the average national consumption of methamphetamine was estimated to be 13.8 kilograms per week.
This represents an 8% increase against the average quantity consumed over the previous four quarters.
This level of usage equates to an estimated social harm cost of $15.3 million per week.
MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine)
Average MDMA consumption was estimated to be 6.9 kilograms per week.
19% above the average quantity consumed over the previous four quarters.
This level of MDMA usage equates to an estimated social harm cost of $0.96 million per week.
Cocaine
Cocaine consumption increased considerably over this period, across all districts, to an average of 2.6 kilograms per week.
This reflects a 68% increase in average quantity consumed per week over the previous four quarters.
Cocaine use during July to September 2023 equates to an estimated weekly social harm cost of $0.78 million.
Source: https://www.police.govt.nz/sites/default/files/publications/wastewater-results-quarter-3-2023.pdf
Illicit drug use can compromise an employee’s coordination, concentration, alertness, and ability to exercise judgement. As such it poses a significant safety risk for workplaces. To help manage this risk, it is recommended that workplaces have a robust drug and alcohol policy in place, implement regular testing and support the program through ongoing training and education of the workforce.
DASA-NZ has the experience and the expertise to help your organization effectively manage drug and alcohol risk in your workplace. To find out more about workplace drug testing, contact us today via email to sales@dasa-nz.co.nz or call us on 0800 000 011.
DASA-NZ (Drug and Alcohol Solutions New Zealand) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol testing services throughout New Zealand. Whether your need is for workplace drug and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA-NZ can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.
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